NFIB/Alaska State Director Denny DeWitt reports from the State Capitol on the legislative week ending February 12, 2016
It has been an interesting week. The House began it by deferring hearings on all bills not budget or revenue-generating, until it passes its version of the budget to the Senate, which is expected to come the last week of February or first week of March. They wanted to have all members focused on the fiscal state of Alaska.
The Senate is still slightly operating committees as usual, but they are gravitating to bills that generate revenue or change the use of the Permanent Fund.
Felony Threshold
A big issue for NFIB is the proposed increase in the threshold for felony crimes. Senate Bill 91 increases the level from $750 to $2,000. NFIB Member Chris Nettles will testify in opposition. Members are encouraged to send emails to the State Affairs Committee indicating your opposition. If you are willing, it is always helpful if you go to the local legislative information office to offer your opposition in person. NFIB’s letter to Sen. John Coghill stating its opposition can be read here.
Independent Contractors
Another big issue for NFIB members is House Bill 307 by Rep. Gabrielle LeDoux, which would redefine independent contractors. The specific language is on Page 4, Line 26 through Page 6, Line 15.
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